Flat-Coated Retriever: The Hunter-Retriever

The Flat-Coated Retriever was developed in England in the nineteenth century and before the Labrador was developed this breed was the retriever of choice. It is very possible that this breed came from a mixture of the Collie, Spaniel and Newfoundland bloodlines. Originally this breed was known as a gundog for hunting on land, but later came to be a retriever for both land and water and is very skilled in both.

It is highly recommended and encouraged that the Flat Coated Retriever begin socialization and obedience training early. As long as this breed is very socialized and trained very well, they are a wonderful house pet and family companion that is friendly towards al and very enthusiastic and optimistic. They bond very closely with everyone in the family and do not seem partial to anyone. Flat-coats are low-key and calm inside the house, however never seem to run out of energy when playing, retrieving and running outdoors. However, if this breed is not given enough stimulation, activity or companionship, they can tend to be destructive or overly active when by themselves for any length of time. They do well with children, but because of their high energy level are not recommended in a household with small children.

The Flat-Coated Retriever can stand anywhere from twenty-three to twenty-five inches tall and can possibly weigh anywhere from fifty-five to seventy-five pounds. The Flat-coat's coat color is usually a rich brown color, otherwise known as liver-colored. They do not have an undercoat. Their coat is very shiny and full looking, of a medium length and it should lie straight and flat.

One and a half to two and a half cans of a product that is high-quality meat is best for this breed. They can also be fed five cups of a dry dog food complete with vitamins and minerals instead.

This breed is known for his versatility as a hunting dog. He is a very loyal house pet and establishing strong bonds with all members of his family and becomes very devoted to them. However, because of their energy level, they need to be closely supervised around children and are not recommended in a home where there are small children.

Flat-coats need fun training sessions of great variety because they can have a tendency to get bored easily and can become willful if they are bored. The trainer needs to be fun and have short training sessions where the dog cannot sense what is coming next to keep his interest. Positive reinforcement works best for them in their training sessions. They do not tolerate and shy away from any harsh correction or training. Their tendency to be somewhat willful will be on display if harsh correction takes place.

This breed seems to always be very happy and be very optimistic, proven by their constantly wagging tail. They are able to get along very well and live with cats, other dogs, small pets and strangers and do not mind if someone new is introduced once they have established their territory.